Editor’s Note: The following letter, submitted by Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, deals with recent actions taken by Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, a firm opponent of efforts to comply with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, concerning illegal immigration investigations. He has taken actions against certain law officers who comply with ICE mandates. The issue has resulted in a square-off between Colorado officials and the Trump administration and head law enforcement authorities in Colorado. Weiser, a Democrat, who is term-limited, is one of a slew of candidates for governor. Mikesell, who is term-limited himself in his role as sheriff, also is a contender in the race.
Dear Editor:
“It is a sad day for all Coloradans and a new low when the Attorney General of Colorado files a lawsuit against a deputy sheriff of a county for following federal law assisting with an investigation. The stated mission of the Colorado Attorney General is to “advance respect for the law and the public interest”.
In filing a lawsuit against the Mesa County Sheriff’s deputy, let us not forget this lawsuit will carry a fine up to 50,000 dollars that this deputy will have to pay, not the agency. When this deputy makes a small salary to begin with to support himself and his family.
Again, in filing this lawsuit AG Weiser did just the opposite by disrespecting the rule of law, including Federal Law, and is a slap in the face of our brave law enforcement community and the constitutional authority granted them by our state constitution. His actions are not in keeping with the public interest but instead has now resulted in a Colorado that is less safe.
I am calling for his immediate resignation as this is nothing more than a publicity stunt to further his political ambitions in his race for governor. This demonstrates to those of us in law enforcement exactly why he will not be the next governor of Colorado.”
Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell
Candidate for Governor
